When planning the same holiday year after year, how do you keep your celebration fresh and interesting while maintaining a sense of tradition? We asked our favorite bloggers and food people to share what’s inspiring their Thanksgiving planning this year. From ancestor’s recipes and falling leaves, to beautiful piles of ingredients and thoughtful home decor, there was no shortage of imagination. See what motivates some of the most creative minds we know, and then start planning your annual feast.

Growing up, Thanksgiving was always a very important and lavish holiday at our house: large floral centerpieces; burgundy or gold napkins fashioned in ornate rings; the turkey on a grand platter decorated with fruit and greenery. For me, this was a food event that was all about the side dishes. I was always one for skipping the roasted bird. I’ve never been a big fan of turkey or ham, instead going straight for the soup, salads and stuffing. Now that I’m grown up and hosting my own holidays and a recent convert to vegetarianism, my focus is on wonderful sides and simple decor. It’s not much different than how we cook and entertain for the everyday occasion. Being able to cook for friends and family, and share those recipes on my blog, is a gift I don’t take for granted. We do this quite often and the spirit of Thanksgiving shows up around our house every day.